HMRC’s Fern House to close

Nichola Neill

Staff at the office, located at Adelaide Avenue, were told this morning that the local office would close by 2017

The announcement is the next step in HMRC’s ten-year modernisation programme to create a tax authority fit for the future, committing to high-quality jobs and the creation of a new regional centre in Belfast by 2017-18.

Speaking after Thursday’s announcement, Mr Jim Harra, Director General Business Tax, said consultation with Coleraine staff would begin in the New Year.

“I would expect Fern House to close early in 2017,” he confirmed.

“In the 12 months leading up to that there will be an extensive consultation process with the employees.

“This will allow staff time to make choices, and reduce the number of possible redundancies.

“Obviously it will come down to everyone’s own personal circumstances.

“There will be a number of options for them. Foyle House in Londonderry is to remain open until 2021, so there is the possibility of staff relocating to there or Belfast.

“Were there is additional travel costs incurred, HMRC will contribute towards this for a period of five years. Staff will be given a range of options, and will have time to consider their future with HMRC.”